Dressage & Combined Training

What is Dressage?

Dressage, (a French term, meaning ‘training’) is the harmonious development of the physique and ability of the horse. It makes the horse calm, supple, loose and flexible, but also confident, attentive and keen, with a perfect understanding with his rider.

These qualities, which are fundamental to all disciplines, are:
* Freedom and regularity of the paces
* Harmony, lightness and ease of the movements
* Lightness of the forehand
* Engagement of the hind quarters, originating in a lively impulsion
* Acceptance of the bridle,
* Submissiveness throughout, without any tension or resistance.

A Dressage Event is composed of one or more competitions between individual mounted competitors, performing specified Dressage tests.

The levels of test available are:
* Walk/Trot
* Preparatory
* Preliminary
* Novice
* Elementary
* Medium

For more information on dressage, please refer to the following fact sheets:
* Requirements for Dressage Levels (PDF)
* Objects & Principles of Dressage(PDF)
* Origins of Dressage(PDF)
* The Paces(PDF)
* The Paces(PDF)

Performance Cards are required for official dressage in Pony Club

What is Combined Training?

Combined Training, is a two phase competition, Dressage with a Showjumping Course.

The Dressage and Jumping Tests, which make up a Combined Training Competition must be taken in that order.

Riders are graded by their dressage Grading or Age for level A, B or C. A change in individual Dressage grading will be reflected in Combined Training in the Dressage Level. Riders choose their own Showjumping height.

Individual Showjumping levels have no bearing on Combined Training.